The Hindu Business Line : Future group to expand biz in rural markets

NEW DELHI: Kishore Biyani-led Pantaloon Retail, which operates a number of retail formats primarily catering to the urban India, is looking at expanding in the rural markets to enhance its presence.

"We are looking at rural markets as well," Mr Kishore Biyani, CEO, Future Group said. Asked whether the company would mark its foray into the rural markets independently or in partnership, Mr Biyani said, "There are various options which are being looke d at currently."

Mr Biyani, however, declined to comment on the reports of Pantaloon Retail's plans to pick up 70 per cent stake in the Godrej Group's rural initiative - Aadhaar.

With its latest plans to focus on the rural side, the Future group looks set to join the bandwagon along with another major business conglomerate - the ITC Group.

ITC also has a considerable presence in the country's rural side with its e-choupal retail initiative, which is basically aimed at providing a support system to the farmers.

Pantaloon Retail currently operates over 6 million square feet of retail space across 48 cities in India with multiple delivery formats covering areas like fashion, food, general merchandise, home, leisure and entertainment, financial services, communica tions and wellness. - PTI

Prev: Export of edible oils banned
Next: Microsoft cuts price on retails packs

Business Line | NUS Index |